MARY’S SHRINE
Volume 71 No. 2
Fall/Winter 2010
Our Lady of Guadalupe
Patroness of the Americas
» Rector’s Message
By Reverend Monsignor Walter R. Rossi, J.C.L.
“T
he highest priority is to make God visible in
the world and to open to humanity a way to
God.” These words spoken by our Holy Father, Pope
Benedict XVI at the Chapel of Apparitions during
his recent pilgrimage to Fatima, summarize quite
perfectly the work of the Church and most
especially, the ministry of shrines in general.
Although this National Shrine was built by
Catholics of America as a national tribute to the
Blessed Virgin Mary under her title “Immaculate
Conception,” there are many other shrines
throughout the world dedicated to Our Lady as
well as the saints. Each one stands as a visible
reminder that our life with God is a priority.
Through pilgrimages, prayer and the invocation of
a particular saint, shrines “open to humanity a way
to God” by providing an environment in which
individuals can be transported out of their normal,
every day routine and contemplate their life with
God more completely.
I am always impressed by the countless pilgrims
who come to Mary’s Shrine on diocesan pilgrimages,
with their parish, school or simply on their own.
As they walk through this sacred place, visit the
chapels and spend time in quiet reflection, the
devotion of our pilgrims is quite evident and their
faith inspires my own.
One of my great disappointments however, is
that not enough American Catholics understand
or appreciate the great spiritual treasure found in
making a pilgrimage and visiting a shrine! Our
“tourist mentality” limits our experience of travel
to simply making a trip for vacation or sometimes
even business. Rarely do we take the time to make a
spiritual journey, a pilgrimage, that opens the way to
God. As a result, I believe that American Catholics
are missing out on many blessings!
To go on pilgrimage seems to be more of a European
phenomenon. We need to make the practice of
pilgrimage an American phenomenon as well! The
Of course, we are always happy to have pilgrims at
Mary’s House! The Apostolic Nuncio to the United
States, Archbishop Pietro Sambi, has referred to
the National Shrine as “the heart of the Catholic
Church in the United States.” Throughout our
more than 90-year history, these words have proven
true, as pilgrims from the United States and all
around the world have come to Mary’s House to
seek the intercession of Our Lady and her guidance.
Week after week, we experience the universality of
the Church, as we welcome tourists and pilgrims
from every nation and walk of life. My continual
invitation to all our visitors and to you, who read
this edition of Mary’s Shrine, is to liken your heart
to the heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary! Like Mary,
always be open to God’s presence in your life
and receptive to his word. Some days this may be
easy, others may be more difficult. No matter the
situation or circumstance, if we, like Mary, place
ourselves in God’s care and at his service, we will
never be disappointed.
In a homily preached on the former Feast of the
Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the 15th
century, Saint Lawrence Justinian advocated, “How
entirely blessed was the mind of the Virgin, which,
through the indwelling and guidance of the Spirit,
was always and in every way open to the power of
the Word of God. Imitate her, O faithful soul!”
Not knowing what the future would hold for her,
Mary said “yes” to God, confident that God would
never let her down. God will not fail us either!
So, “imitate her, O faithful soul” and allow Mary’s
Shrine to assist you along this path!
MISSION STATEMENT
T
he Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, a Catholic church
dedicated to the patroness of our nation, is a place of worship, pilgrimage, evangelization
and reconciliation. It offers visitors the occasion for a deepening conversion, a step forward in the
journey to God, with Mary as the model for that journey. This monumental church, raised by
Catholics of the United States because of their devotion to Mary the Mother of God, gives visibility
to their faith and Catholic heritage. Mary’s Shrine invites people from across the country and
beyond into the saving moment of faith, hope and charity, so that they may be reconciled and
transformed into living symbols of Christ’s presence in the world. It is here that the faithful gather
to worship God, give honor to Mary, and are sent to spread God’s word wherever they go.
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M a r y ’s S h r i n e v F a l l / W i n t e r 2 0 0 8
Bachrach
Mary’s Shrine
United States has
over 100 shrines;
more than 50 are
dedicated to the
Blessed Mother.
Many of these are
in your own back
yard, and are much
easier to visit than
making a European
pilgrimage. Use
these sacred places
to your advantage!
Pontifical Solemn High Mass
Offered for Pope Benedict XVI
Nancy Wiechec/Catholic News Service
Vested in the cappa magna, Bishop Edward Slattery processes through the Great Upper Church prior to his celebration of the Pontifical
Solemn High Mass in the Extraordinary Form.
O
n April 24, 2010, the fifth anniversary of
the inauguration of Pope Benedict XVI as
Supreme Pontiff, a Pontifical Solemn High Mass
in the Extraordinary Form was celebrated in the
Great Upper Church of the Basilica of the
National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.
Also known as the Tridentine or Traditional Latin
Mass, it was the first such Mass celebrated
according to the 1962 Missal at the High Altar of
the National Shrine in decades.
Sponsored by The Paulus Institute, whose mission
is to propagate the Sacred Liturgy of the Roman
Catholic Church, the Mass was broadcast live
worldwide by the Eternal Word Television
Network (EWTN).
DVD copies of the Pontifical Solemn High
Mass are available for purchase at the Basilica
in the National Shrine Shops or online at
www.nationalshrineshops.com.
Nancy Wiechec/Catholic News Service
Bishop Edward Slattery of Tulsa, Oklahoma, was
the celebrant and homilist of the Mass, which,
with the exception of the homily, was offered
entirely in Latin.
attain unto everlasting life, together with the flock
committed unto him.”
More than 2500 of the faithful attended the
Mass, some who remembered the Traditional
Latin Mass which had been celebrated regularly
before 1970, and others for whom it was their
very first experience.
The Opening Prayer, known as The Collect,
expressed the intention of the Mass for the Holy
Father (as translated from Latin): “O God, the
Shepherd and Ruler of all Thy faithful people,
mercifully look upon Thy servant, Benedict,
whom Thou hast chosen as the chief Shepherd to
reside over Thy Church; grant him, we beseech
Thee, so to edify, both by word and example,
those over whom he hath charge, that he may
Bishop Slattery faces the altar during the consecration in the
Traditional Latin Rite according to the 1962 Missal.
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Knights Open 128th Supreme
Convention with Mass at Basilica
Knights of Columbus
Over 3000 Knights of Columbus attend the Opening Mass of the 128th Supreme Convention in the Basilica’s Great Upper Church.
T
he Knights of Columbus opened their 128th
Supreme Convention in Washington, D.C.
with Mass at the Basilica of the National Shrine
of the Immaculate Conception on Tuesday
morning, August 3, 2010.
Archbishop Donald W. Wuerl of Washington
was the principal celebrant and homilist. He was
joined by eight cardinals—Cardinal William
Baum, the Major Penitentiary Emeritus and
Archbishop Emeritus of Washington; Cardinal
Edmund Szoka, the President Emeritus of the
Pontifical Commission for Vatican City State and
Archbishop Emeritus of Detroit; Cardinal Jaime
Ortega, Archbishop of Havana, Cuba; Cardinal
Francis George, Archbishop of Chicago; Cardinal
Theodore McCarrick, Archbishop Emeritus of
Washington; Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop
of Philadelphia; Cardinal Gaudencio Rosales,
Archbishop of Manila, Philippines; and, Cardinal
Sean O’Malley, Archbishop of Boston—and 76
Bishops,134 priests and 3 deacons.
Monsignor Walter R. Rossi, Rector of the Basilica,
warmly greeted his fellow clergy and welcomed his
brother Knights, their families, as well as Supreme
Knight Carl Anderson, Past Supreme Knight
Virgil Dechant, and the Supreme Officers and
Delegates to the Convention.
He remarked, “It is often said that the Knights
of Columbus are the ‘right arm of the church.’
For this National Shrine, the Knights of
Columbus have been the right arm of Mary’s
Shrine since the laying of the cornerstone in
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1920…and part of the mortar which keeps the
Shrine together.”
Among the Knights’ many contributions,
Monsignor Rossi spoke of the majestic Knights
Tower “raising our eyes to heaven,” the Knights
Carillon which “summons us to prayer,” and
the Knights of Columbus Incarnation Dome
which “reminds all who visit Mary’s House…
of God’s presence, most especially in the Word
become flesh.”
The Knights of Columbus chose to open their
Supreme Convention with the Votive Mass of
Our Lady of Guadalupe.
In his homily, Archbishop Wuerl noted, “How
appropriate that we would begin this meeting
of the Supreme Council and Convention of the
Knights of Columbus gathering representatives
of the Knights from the United States, Canada,
Mexico, Cuba, the Dominican Republic,
Poland and beyond at a Mass commemorating
the apparition of Our Lady of Guadalupe and
asking her intercession.“
Referring to the New Evangelization which the
late Pope John Paul II and now Pope Benedict
XVI have called the Church to, Archbishop
Wuerl declared, “As Patroness and Queen of
America, we see in Our Lady the model of our
own mission for evangelization.”
He continued, “Today in the age of the New
Evangelization, the Knights of Columbus rightfully turn to Our Lady of Guadalupe so that we
Knights of Columbus
of service, charity, kindness and compassion, we
might not only carry out the Gospel mandate
to manifest Christ’s kingdom, but be seen in all
of our works as instruments of love.”
And, “Just as the roses tumbled out from the
tilma to reveal the face of the mother of Jesus
inviting us to embrace her Son, so do the
works of the Knights of Columbus continue
to pour forth as a sign of love and an invitation
to faith.”
“What we lift up at this Supreme Convention –
the works of charity and service of the Knights
of Columbus throughout the world – is truly a
celebration of our Catholic identity and a fruit
of Our Lady’s visit to America.”
The Fourth Degree Knights Color Corps enter the Basilica in
full regalia.
may be inspired by her action and strengthened
by her intercession so that through our works
Finally, invoking the theme of the Supreme
Convention, “I am my Brother’s Keeper,”
Archbishop Wuerl commended the Knights
to continue to be “champions of the New
Evangelization” as he prayed, “Our Lady of
Guadalupe, Queen of the Americas, give us
courage…so that we may proclaim anew the
Gospel that we are our brother’s keeper because
we are our brother’s brother.”
Knights of Columbus
Knights of Columbus Incarnation
Dome Plaque Blessed
Matthew Barrick
L-R: Cardinal Rigali, Cardinal George, Cardinal O’Malley, Cardinal Ortega, Cardinal McCarrick, Bishop Lori, Archbishop Wuerl, Supreme
Knight Anderson, Cardinal Szoka, Bishop Bransfield, Cardinal Rosales, Monsignor Rossi and Past Supreme Knight Dechant stand before
the newly blessed plaque.
I
mmediately following the Mass, Archbishop
Wuerl, the concelebrating Cardinals, Bishop
William E. Lori of New Haven and Supreme
Chaplain of the Knights of Columbus, Bishop
Michael J. Bransfield of Wheeling-Charleston
and former Rector of the Basilica, Monsignor
Rossi, Supreme Knight Carl Anderson, and Past
Supreme Knight Virgil Dechant processed to
the Narthex for the Blessing of the Dome
Plaque which reads, “The Incarnation Dome
was sponsored in part by the Knights of
Columbus in celebration of the 125th
anniversary of their order” and includes the
passage from John 1:14 as written in the
Incarnation Dome itself, “And the Word
became flesh and made his dwelling among us,
and we saw his glory, the glory as of the Father’s
only Son, full of grace and of truth.”
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Bob Roller/Catholic News Services
Catholic Standard/Rafael Crisostomo
Basilica First in the U.S. to
Exhibit Relics of Mother Teresa
The Missionaries of Charity displayed a number of Mother Teresa’s relics, including the sandals she wore at the time of her death.
Bob Roller/Catholic News Services
T
he year 2010 marks the hundredth
anniversary of the birth of Mother Teresa,
known as Blessed Teresa of Calcutta since her
beatification by Pope John Paul II in 2003.
In preparation for the actual date of anniversary
of her birth on August 26, the Missionaries of
Charity chose the Basilica of the National Shrine
of the Immaculate Conception to be first in the
United States to display relics of Mother Teresa
for veneration.
Exhibited on June 2, the relics of Mother Teresa,
on loan from the Mother House in Calcutta,
included those of first-class: a reliquary containing
drops of her dried blood and another containing
a lock of her hair. Also on display were several
second-class relics which included her crucifix,
rosary and sandals—all in use by Mother at the
time of her death. A steady stream of the faithful
venerated the relics throughout the day.
That same day, Monsignor Rossi, Rector of the
Basilica, celebrated a special Votive Mass of Blessed
Teresa of Calcutta in the Crypt Church.
In his homily, he noted, “Today we are honored
by the presence of Blessed Teresa of Calcutta. As
Mother was physically present in this National
Shrine during the course of her life [referring to
her visits to the Basilica on a number of occasions,
including in 1979 to receive the Patronal Medal,
and in 1991 and 1995 for the profession of her
sisters], so once again today she is physically
present through her relics.”
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A reliquary containing drops of Mother Teresa’s blood was
venerated by the faithful.
“The veneration of relics,” Monsignor Rossi
explained is “meant to draw us closer to God,
to foster greater and more prayerful devotion,
to encourage imitation of the virtues of the
saint who is venerated, and to seek their
intercession in our own lives.”
He concluded, “These relics of Mother which we
have before us are not magic. Her presence may not
change us overnight or as we walk out the door. But,
as we venerate her relics, we ask her to pray with us
and for us, that one day we may achieve our goal,
and like her, be a light of the Lord for those in
darkness…and maybe even one day, a saint.”
O
n Sunday, September 5, 2010, the
thirteenth anniversary of her death
and ten days following the one hundredth
anniversary of her birth, the United States Postal
Service will unveil its exclusive Mother Teresa
Commemorative Stamp and hold its First Day
of Issue Ceremony at the Basilica.
The unveiling ceremony will follow the annual
Memorial Mass celebrated on the anniversary of
Mother Teresa’s death. Archbishop Pietro Sambi,
Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, will be
the principal celebrant and homilist of the Mass.
United States Postal Service
United States Postal
Service to Unveil
Commemorative
Mother Teresa
Stamp at Basilica
He will participate in
the unveiling ceremony with Auxiliary
Bishop Barry C. Knestout of Washington,
Monsignor Walter R. Rossi, Rector of the
Basilica, Sister Leticia Cabrera, M.C., Superior
of the Immaculate Conception Province of
the Missionaries of Charity, and U.S.
Postmaster General John E. Potter.
Mother Teresa Stamps and other commemorative items from the First Day of Issue
Ceremony are available for purchase at
www.nationalshrineshops.com.
I
n 1998, Saint John’s Abbey and
University commissioned the
renowned calligrapher and scribe to Her
Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Donald
Jackson, to produce a hand-written,
hand-illuminated Bible, the first of its
kind in 500 years.
A team of artists coordinated by Jackson
and a team of scholars in Central
Minnesota have brought together the
ancient techniques of calligraphy and illumination
with an approach rooted in Benedictine
spirituality. The result is a living document and
a monumental achievement, a work of art and a
work of theology—The Saint John’s Bible.
The Bible is in seven volumes with each volume
taking on its own character. A bound volume can
weigh as much as 35 pounds.
The Heritage Edition of The Saint John’s Bible is a
fine art reproduction of the original vellum
manuscript. Each of the 1,150 pages and 160
illuminations has been scrupulously compared
to its original counterpart to guarantee accurate
reproduction and to maintain the awe-inspiring
artistic intent of the original.
An opening spread from Wisdom Books shows the
Garden of Desire illumination from Sirach 24 by Suzanne Moore.
The Heritage Edition of The Saint John’s Bible will
be on display at the Basilica of the National Shrine
of the Immaculate Conception in Memorial Hall
October 11, 2010 to January 21, 2011. Fr. Eric
Hollas, OSB, Ph.D., former executive director of
the Hill Monastic Manuscript Library at St. John’s
University, will give a presentation on the Bible
November 4, at 7 p.m.
St. John’s University is endeavoring to place one of
the twelve rare, full-size “Apostle Editions” at the
Basilica of the National Shrine. Pope Benedict XVI,
when presented with the St. Peter Apostles
Edition, said, “This is a work of art, a great work
of art ... a work for eternity.”
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Copyright © Terry Anderson Photography
The Saint John’s Bible
On Display at Basilica
Student honorees from across the United States are recognized for their outstanding works of charity and social service.
T
he Basilica of the National Shrine of the
Immaculate Conception was pleased to
name its first Charity & Social Service Honors
recipients—six honorees selected from across the
United States for their outstanding works of
spiritual and corporal of mercy.
Twenty-one worthy nominations from
dioceses across the country were submitted,
and the Honors Committee had the ponderous
task of selecting final honorees. Though
difficult, the committee selected six which
stood above the rest.
The honorees were recognized at the Basilica
on April 11, 2010, Divine Mercy Sunday.
They include the Archdiocese of GalvestonHouston’s Incarnate Word Academy Chapter
of Teens for Unity from Houston, Texas; the
Diocese of Knoxville’s Christian Leadership
Program of Notre Dame High School in
Chattanooga, Tennessee; Miss Claire Waller
from the Diocese of Lexington, Kentucky;
the Diocese of Metuchen’s Immaculata High
School in Somerville, New Jersey; Miss Amanda
Kruse from the Archdiocese of New Orleans;
and the Archdiocese of New York’s Xavier High
School located in New York, New York.
Honorees (individuals and student
representatives of honored schools) were
awarded a trip to the nation’s capital to tour
Washington, D.C. and receive the honors in
person at the Basilica.
Inaugurated during the Basilica’s 2009 Jubilee
Year, the Charity & Social Service Honors
Program was created to honor youth engaged in
“charity in action” as encouraged by Pope
Benedict XVI during his Apostolic Journey to
the United States in 2008.
The Basilica invited each bishop to submit a
multi-media (video or PowerPoint) nomination
from his diocese of a high school student or
group demonstrating their corporal and spiritual
works of mercy for consideration in the Basilica’s
Charity & Social Service Honors Program.
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Archbishop Donald W. Wuerl of Washington,
Chairman of the Basilica’s Board of Trustees,
celebrated the Mass at which students were
honored, and he delivered a powerful and
inspiring homily built around the theme of
charity in action. He also personally
congratulated each of the honorees during
the medal and certificate presentations.
Archbishop Wuerl was assisted in presenting
the honors by Monsignor Walter R. Rossi,
Rector of the Basilica, and Mr. Michael
Gardner, Esq., Chairman of the Basilica’s
Communications Committee which sponsored
the Honors Program.
To view honoree presentations exemplifying their
outstanding works of mercy, please visit www.
nationalshrine.com/honors.
The Basilica looks forward to hosting its next
Charity & Social Service Honors program during
the 2011-2012 academic year.”
Matthew Barrick
Students Honored for
Charity & Social Service
Patronal Medal Awarded
T
he Basilica of the National Shrine of the
Immaculate Conception and The Catholic
University of America honored Monsignor
Paul A. Lenz with the Patronal Medal, an award
both institutions present jointly each year
on the patronal feast of the Basilica and the
United States of America, the Feast of the
Immaculate Conception.
The Patronal Medal recognizes the contributions
of an individual toward the advancement
of Marian devotion, theology and general
appreciation of Mary in the life of the
Church, the nation, and the university.
A member of the Board of Trustees of the
Basilica and Trustee Emeritus of The Catholic
University of America, Monsignor Lenz has
faithfully served the Church in a multitude of
capacities since his ordination as a priest of the
Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown in 1949.
In addition to working as a parish priest,
Monsignor Lenz served as director of the
Society for the Propagation of the Faith of his
diocese. He also taught theology at St. Francis
University and Mount Aloysius College and later
worked as a missionary in Paraguay. In 1975, he
was appointed National Director of the Black
and Indian Mission Office of the United States
Conference of Catholic Bishops, a position
he held for thirty-one years. Appointed
Vice-Postulator of the Cause for Canonization
of Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha by the Vatican in
2005, Monsignor Lenz continues to
work tirelessly in this regard to this day.
Archbishop Donald W. Wuerl of Washington,
Reverend Monsignor Walter R. Rossi, Rector
of the Basilica, and Bishop David M.
O’Connell, C.M., then President of Catholic
University and now Coadjutor Bishop of
Trenton, presented the award whose citation
read, “With great admiration and affection
for him and in recognition of his life’s work,
the Basilica of the National Shrine of the
Immaculate Conception and The Catholic
University of America together, this day,
proudly confer upon Reverend Monsignor
Paul A. Lenz their highest honor, the
Patronal Medal.”
Established in 1974, the Patronal Medal was
first awarded to Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen.
Other past recipients include Cardinals O’Boyle,
Carberry, Baum, Krol, Hickey and Szoka;
Bishops Grady, McHugh and Bransfield;
(Servant of God) Patrick Peyton; (Blessed)
Mother Teresa of Calcutta, M.C.; Mother
Mary Angelica, F.S.P.A.; Supreme Knight Virgil
Dechant; Dr. and Mrs. Joseph Braddock; and
Mrs. Bob (Dolores) Hope.
Ed Pfueller/CUA
L-R: Monsignor Walter R. Rossi, Rector of the Basilica; Archbishop Donald W. Wuerl of Washington; Monsignor Paul A. Lenz, Patronal Medal
Recipient; and, Bishop David M. O’Connell, C. M., then President of CUA.
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Photograph by Geraldine M. Rohling
The Catacombs of Rome
and the Crypt Church
Geraldine M. Rohling, PhD, MAEd
Archivist and Curator
Fractio Panis, the breaking of the bread, based on the fresco of the 2nd century in the Greek Chapel in the catacomb of Priscilla.
D
eep within the city of Rome, beneath the
splendor and grandeur of its exterior, there
is a treasure of early Christian art that ornaments
the walls and cubicles of the catacombs. These
frescoes, at one time understood only by
Christians, chronicle the origins and glories of
the early community of believers of the second
and third centuries. Deep within the Crypt
Church of the Basilica of the National Shrine,
there is a treasure of Christian art derived from
these same Roman catacombs.
An early publication of the National Shrine
referred to the Crypt Church as “the catacomb
under the sanctuary of the main church.” Once
thought to be hiding places for the early
Christians, scholars now tell us that the
catacombs were places of burial and of worship
for a faith that had yet to come of age. In this
sense, the Crypt Church is not a catacomb but
rather catacomb-like, by virtue of its art and as a
place where the living community gathers to
pray and to listen to the word of God. It is a
place where sacrament and sign, as depicted in
ceramic and mosaic, form an active relationship,
a place where the mysteries of faith are celebrated
and the intimate and essential relationship of
Mary in salvation history is explained.
Photograph by Geraldine M. Rohling
The artistic integrity of the Crypt Church was
of particular
importance to Bishop
Thomas J. Shahan,
founder of the
National Shrine.
During his seminary
years at the North
American College in
Rome, Bishop
Shahan received an
extracurricular
education in early
Christian art and
inscription from
Giovanni Battista de
Rossi (1822-1894), a
Roman-born scholar
Panis et pisces, bread and fish, represents the miracle of the loaves and the fishes, which in the
early Christian community, was looked upon as the first and foremost symbol of Eucharist. This
depiction is identical to that of the Callistus catacomb, 2nd century, except for the water symbol.
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and employee of the Vatican
Library and the leading force in
the development of the field
of Christian archaeology.
Shahan once commented
that he learned more from
de Rossi than from any of his
“formal” teachers. As a
scholar, a member of the
faculty, and as the rector of The
Catholic University of America,
Professor Shahan (1889-1928) spent
much time, thought, and ink on the study of
the Roman catacombs, the art of Christian
antiquity, and the catacomb representations of
Mary. This is reflected in a 1910 statement by
Bishop Shahan regarding his vision of the
National Shrine: “Its wall spaces and ceilings
ought to be covered with noble historical
frescoes depicting the origin and the glories of
Catholics in the United
States, and particularly
in these parts.”
In order for the decorative
plan of the Crypt Church
to be truly catacombal,
Mary Chase Stratton, the
artist given the task of
providing the “catacomb”
decorations, made a pilgrimage
to Rome, where she spent weeks
within the catacombs studying and making
sketches of the designs, the subjects and subject
matter, and the composition of the images. The
results, referred to by Bishop Shahan as “legible
decoration,” have created a pictorial theology in
ceramic of the first four centuries of Christianity
based on the art of Christian antiquity and the
Roman catacombs.
Photograph by Geraldine M. Rohling
Photograph by Geraldine M. Rohling
Early Christian artwork did not depict the countenance of God
(Ex 33:20); only indicated the presence of God. The extended
three fingers refer to the Trinity. The rays issuing forth from the
outward palm denote the blessing of God.
Adoratio Magorum or adoration of the magi shows two magi, a
common alternative to the three, and is taken from the catacomb
of Peter and Marcellinus, 3rd century.
Photograph by Geraldine M. Rohling
Virgo Deo consecrate, the vesting of a virgin with a veil is similar to the fresco in the catacomb of Priscilla, 3rd century.
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New Virtual Tours Online
T
he Basilica of the National Shrine of the
Immaculate Conception is pleased to
announce the recent launch of new
interactive Virtual Tours on its website
www.nationalshrine.com.
From the Home Page, website visitors may
click on the “Take a Tour” icon to be directed
to the Virtual Tour landing page. From the
landing page, visitors may embark on their
choice of five virtual tours.
available from the National Shrine’s Gift
Shop and Bookstore or online at
www.nationalshrineshops.com. A link to
purchase the 144-page soft-cover Guide and Tour
Book online is located on each of the virtual tour
pages for your ease.
We hope your virtual tour will inspire you to
visit the National Shrine in person!
We recommend you take all five virtual tours to
plan your next visit or to remember a recent one!
As a reminder, the Basilica of the National
Shrine of the Immaculate Conception is the
largest Roman Catholic Church in the United
States and North America and is one of the ten
largest churches in the world. Designated a
national sanctuary of prayer and pilgrimage,
the Basilica is the nation’s preeminent Marian
Shrine, dedicated to the patroness of the United
States, the Blessed Virgin Mary under the title
of Immaculate Conception. With over 70
chapels and oratories and the most extensive
collection of contemporary ecclesiastical art in
the world, we encourage you to join the millions
who have visited the National Shrine, including
Pope John Paul II, Blessed Mother Teresa of
Calcutta, and Pope Benedict XVI, among so
many others.
To enhance your experience, in-depth
information on each “stop” of the virtual tours is
contained in the Basilica’s Guide and Tour Book
The Basilica is open 365 days a year and provides
Guided Tours daily, except on Thanksgiving
and Christmas.
For the first two, visitors may tour the Upper
Level and Lower Level of the Basilica chapel
by chapel viewing beautiful photographs of
each while following their locations on the
accompanying interactive floor plan.
Even more interactive are the three 360 degree
tours of the Great Upper Church, Crypt Church
and the Basilica’s Exterior. Here the visitor is
placed virtually in these spaces and, with the
click of a mouse, may view up, down and all
around with the ability to zoom in and out.
M a r y ’s S h r i n e v F a l l / W i n t e r 2 0 1 0
Gifts from
Mary’s Shrine
Basilica of the National Shrine Keepsakes
A special assortment of commemorative and devotional gifts for you
and your family.
1001 National Shrine Metal Ornament is goldplated and comes in a
keepsake box. 3” diameter $16.95
1002 Immaculate Conception Mug features a prayer to Our Lady on
the back. $9.95
1003 Immaculate Conception Rosary is Italian made with 7mm double
capped blue crystals, Miraculous Medal center and 1” crucifix.
Gift Boxed. $19.95
Italian Murano & Byzantine Glass Jewelry
These beautiful pieces are handcrafted in Italy so each is uniquely different.
There is a style for your favorite ladies of all ages. All are gift boxed.
1004 Large Cross Necklace features an 18” chain. 1 ¾” long.
$29.95
1005 Small Cross Necklace with 18” chain. ¾” long. $19.95
1006 Heart Shaped Stretch Bracelet with miraculous and crucifix
charms. $12.95
Basilica Birthstone Collection
Perfect gifts for any occasion, these beautiful pieces will be loved
by all ages. Wonderful for daughters and granddaughters, nieces
and nephews or your favorite loved one. Add the month to the end of
each style # when you order. All are gift boxed.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
1007 Miraculous Medal Center Rosary 6mm crystal beads. $19.95
1008 Crystal Baguette Cross Necklace set in sterling with rhodium
plated 18” chain. $34.95
1009 Rosary Bracelet with Miraculous Medal and Crucifix 6mm
crystal beads fits up to 7 ¼”. $16.95
Heavenly Protector Statues
Finely detailed resin and stone mix statues feature a rich metallic gold
tone filigree base. In the base is a little drawer that holds a scroll with
a prayer to the saint.
1010 Infant of Prague 9” high. $49.95
1011 Holy Family 10” high. $69.95
1012 Our Lady of Guadalupe 12” high. $59.95
All proceeds from your purchases from Mary’s Shrine directly support the mission and ministry of the Basilica. Thank you for your support!
Visit Our National Shrine Shops Website
at www.nationalshrineshops.com
Gifts from
Mary’s Shrine
CDs
1013 The
Canadian Tenors
CD: The Canadian
Tenors’ music is
an eclectic blend
of classical and
contemporary pop that is thrilling
audiences of all ages. The Tenors are the
incredibly powerful voices of four gifted
young men with diverse vocal styles.
Their unique repertoire is sung not only in
English and French but also in Spanish and
Italian reflecting their multicultural heritage. Critics and audiences have agreed
that this first album is a memorable hit
that features a repertoire of classic songs
such as The Prayer, Hallelujah, Always
There as well as their haunting version of
the well loved Adagio and the extraordinary
sensation Because We Believe. $17.95
1014 Chris Botti In
Boston CD/DVD:
Chris Botti began
playing the trumpet
at the age of 9 and,
since the 2004
release of his critically acclaimed album,
When I Fall in Love, has become the largest
selling American jazz instrumental artist.
Chris Botti In Boston was filmed and recorded
September 18-19, 2008 at Symphony Hall
in Boston with Keith Lockhart conducting
The Boston Pops. Botti, along with a cast
of incredible, world famous artists such as
Sting, Lucia Micarelli, John Mayer, and Josh
Groban, gives a masterful performance in this
unforgettable live concert. The special CD/
DVD combo includes a bonus DVD that
includes a two-hour concert plus a 40-minute
behind-the-scenes bonus. $24.95
1015 Believe CD:
Katherine Jenkins,
the famous Welsh
mezzo-soprano
classical singing
star in the UK and
Europe, has joined
with legendary music producer David
Foster to make this new album of epic
proportions that combines lovely classical, pop, romantic and spiritual hymns.
Foster made the beautiful arrangements
for these songs, and Jenkins’ rich voice
gives them moving, heartfelt renditions.
The songs include a powerful duet of I
Believe with Andrea Bocelli, the classic
La Califfa with virtuoso trumpeter Chris
Botti, the title track to Andrew Lloyd
Webber’s latest musical, Love Never
Dies and many more. $18.95
DVDs
1016 Nine Days that
Changed the World
DVD: Former Speaker
of the House Newt
Gingrich and his
wife Callista have
collaborated on a brand
new documentary that
is a powerful story of freedom through
faith. This groundbreaking film recounts
Pope John Paul II’s historic nine-day trip
to Poland in June of 1979, and reveals
why this visit was the turning point for
defeating Communism in Eastern Europe.
During these nine days, Pope John Paul II
reminded the Polish people that nothing
could stand between them and God. The
Pope sparked a revolution of conscience
in the Polish people that led to the
success of Solidarity’s free-trade union
movement, and ultimately the fall of the
Berlin Wall and the collapse of the Soviet
Union. $19.95
1017 Pontifical
Solemn High Mass
at the National
Shrine DVD: On
April 24, 2010, the
fifth anniversary of
Pope Benedict’s
inauguration was
commemorated in the Great Upper
Church of the Basilica of the National
Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
by a Pontifical Solemn High Mass in the
Extraordinary Form. This was the first
such Traditional Latin Mass said at the
Shrine’s High Altar in nearly 45 years
and was beautifully celebrated by His
Excellency Bishop Edward Slattery of
Tulsa, Okla. to a standing-room only
crowd. Get your piece of Shrine history
with this newly released DVD of the
beautiful and historic Mass. $25.00
1019 Where There is
Love, There is God:
Taken largely from her
private lessons to her
sisters and published
here for the first
time, this new book
unveils Mother Teresa’s
extraordinary faith in and surrender to God’s
will. Sent to alleviate the sufferings of the
poor, she assumed their struggles and
pain in the depths of her heart. This led to
particularly intense anguish which she lived
through with heroic courage and fidelity
for decades. In what many are calling a
sequel to the New York Times bestseller,
Come Be My Light, this new collection of
writings from Mother Teresa can teach us a
great deal about how to face our own daily
struggles or sufferings $24.00
1020 Visions of
Heaven, Hell and
Purgatory: Today, there
are many who doubt the
existence of Heaven,
Hell and Purgatory. In
this wonderful book
from Bob and Penny
Lord, the reader gets some fascinating
glimpses of these places from saints and
visionaries who have been given a rare
peek behind the veil by Our Lord and Our
Lady. What they saw and heard is gripping and, at times, chilling. Most importantly, however, these visions remind us
that Heaven, Hell and Purgatory do indeed
exist and that our lives should be ordered
in such a way that reflect our desire for
Heaven and love for God.$14.95
1018 St. Anthony:
Miracle Worker of
Padua DVD: This is
the first major feature
length drama on the life
of St. Anthony of Padua,
the beloved miracle
worker and one of the
most popular saints in Christian history.
Shot on location in Italy, this film tells the
story of his amazing and adventurous
life from his youth until his death at the
age of 36. The film follows his travels
through Italy, his mission to Morocco and
his meeting with St. Francis. It beautifully
portrays the power of his preaching, the
holiness of his life, his love for the poor
and oppressed, and the wonders of his
miracles. Actor Daniele Liotti gives
a truly memorable and inspiring
performance as St. Anthony.
(Italian with English subtitles).$19.95
INSPIRATIONAL Books
1021 Be a Man!:
Becoming the Man
God Created You To
Be: Fr. Larry Richards,
a priest from Erie,
Pa. has become a
very popular speaker
because he tells it like
it is and doesn’t mince words or worry
about making people feel uncomfortable.
In this new book, Fr. Richards seeks
to challenge men to rediscover the
importance of the spiritual life. He
recounts his own struggles to learn true
manhood and tells men how to live as a
beloved son of God. This is a highly
readable book for men by a man who
knows how to talk to men about the
things that matter most. $13.95
use attached order form or call toll- free 1-800-333-4411
Gifts from
Mary’s Shrine
Devotional Books
1022 Christian
Prayer: Christian
Prayer is the onevolume edition of
the Liturgy of the
Hours. This edition
of the Divine Office
contains the
complete texts of
Morning and Evening Prayer for the entire
year and makes a good “starter edition”
for the laity or anyone interested in
making prayer a more central part of
their day. For centuries, the Office was
something that was only prayed by
priests and religious. Today, more and
more lay people are saying it as part of
their effort to grow in holiness. Includes
the Guide for Christian Prayer for 2010.
$40.00
1023 Prayers and
Heavenly Promises:
In this amazing
little book, best-selling
author Joan Carroll
Cruz has put together a
treasury of very special
prayers and devotions
that Our Lord and Our
Lady have attached special promises
to those who recite them. Compact and
easy to carry, this unique prayer book can
help anyone obtain many rich graces and
blessings and the promises revealed in it
demonstrate that God is eager to grant us
many favors, both spiritual and temporal,
if we will only humble ourselves and pray
for them! $6.00
1024 Ignatius Catholic
Study Bible (New
Testament): For the
first time, the Ignatius
Catholic Study Bible
brings together all of
the books of the New
Testament and the
penetrating study tools developed by
renowned Bible teachers Dr. Scott Hahn
and Curtis Mitch into a single beautiful
leather-bound volume. Extensive study
notes, topical essays and word studies
provide fresh and faithful insights informed
by time-tested, authentically Catholic interpretations from the Fathers of the Church
and other scholars. Commentaries include
the best insights of ancient, medieval and
modern scholarship, and follow the Church’s
guidelines for biblical interpretation. $39.95
SAINTS Books
1025 Mother
Teresa at 100: The
Life and Works of
a Modern Saint:
In celebration of
the centenary of
her birth in 1910,
the editors of TIME
have published a
very special new book celebrating the
extraordinary life of Mother Teresa.
Featuring some of the most striking
photographs of her in existence and
original journalism, the book traces her
astonishing progress from girlhood to
her lonely one-woman mission to the
poor, sick, and dying in the slums of
Calcutta, India. It also beautifully details
her transformation from a nun whose
mystical visions of a radically new
calling were originally doubted, to a
globally beloved model for people of
all creeds and classes. $19.95
1026 Mysteries of
the Virgin Mary:
From Fr. Peter John
Cameron, the Editorin-Chief of Magnificat,
comes a brand new
book that considers
some of the major
mysteries associated
with the Mother of God. This handy
guide to the major Marian feasts offers
reflections to encourage meditation on
the 13 principal Marian mysteries
celebrated by the Church. Chapters
unfold according to the chronology of
Mary’s life, starting with the Immaculate
Conception and include her birthday, the
Annunciation, the Visitation, her sorrows,
and much more. $14.99
1027 Saints Tell
Their Stories:
Who can tell the
stories of the
saints better
than the saints
themselves? In
this beautifully
illustrated book,
twenty-six saints tell the story of their
lives to children in a simple and personal
way. From the Blessed Virgin Mary to
Blessed Teresa of Calcutta, each saint
comes to life in this book and each one
has something important to tell kids about
God and the way He works in our lives.
Saints were real people who loved God
above all else, and this book will help kids
understand why we honor them and why
they are the perfect companions for
our own faith journey. Ideal for children
ages 5–10. $12.95
BEST SELLERs
1028 The Archbishop
Wore Combat Boots:
The embodiment
of “The Greatest
Generation,”
Archbishop Philip
Hannan’s intellect, wit,
generosity, and work
ethic were unparalleled when fighting for
what he believed in. Grab a front row
seat on this extraordinary man’s always
fascinating, ever-humbling journey as he
recounts the mark he made on the pivotal
events of the 20th century. And go behind
the scenes as Archbishop Hannan—at
age 97—details the events, pressures,
decisions, and emotions of his experiences
proving, once again, the impact that one
human being can have on history. $24.95
1029 Exorcism and
the Church Militant:
The phenomenon
of demonic possession
is one of the most
frightening realities
of the fallen human
condition and one
of the most misunderstood. For those
who seek insight into this serious
aspect of the Christian faith, Fr. Thomas
Euteneuer, an exorcist who has performed
numerous exorcisms, has compiled an
in-depth compendium of the basic
teachings about exorcism, which will give
the reader an insider’s perspective on the
Church’s warfare against the enemy of
our souls. $19.95
Visit Our National Shrine Shops Website
1030 No Turning Back:
A Witness to Mercy:
Though today he is a
devout Catholic priest, Fr.
Donald Calloway’s early
years were no indication
of what was to come.
Before his conversion
to Catholicism, he was a high school
dropout who had been kicked out of a
foreign country, institutionalized twice and
thrown in jail multiple times. Many who
know of Fr. Donald know him because
of his incredible conversion story. Here,
for the first time, is the complete story of
Fr. Calloway’s personal conversion in his
own words and with more gripping details
than he’s ever before provided. $19.95
at www.nationalshrineshops.com
To remember the Basilica of the National Shrine in
your will, you may contact your attorney or financial
advisor for assistance in making a bequest. Or, you
may simply include the following in your will:
I give, devise, and bequeath to the Basilica of the
National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, a
body corporate of the District of Columbia, and
located in Washington, D.C., (the sum of _____)
or (__ % of rest residue, and remainder of my estate)
or (__ shares of _____) or all my right, title and
interest in the following described property _____).
Please feel free to contact the Basilica at
202-526-8300 if we can provide you with
further information or assistance.
PAID
Basilica of the National Shrine
of the Immaculate Conception
U.S. Postage
or many, charitable giving is an act of faith
grounded in confidence in God’s abundance
and motivated by a desire to create additional
resources for accomplishing God’s work.
Leaving a legacy gift to the Basilica of the
National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
offers the opportunity to pass on not only your
assets but also the values that have guided your life.
Remembering the National Shrine in your
estate planning is a wonderful way to put your
values into action, ensuring that Mary’s House is
maintained for future generations as a center of
worship and devotion as a personal legacy.
400 Michigan Avenue NE
Washington, DC 20017
F
Basilica of the National Shrine
of the Immaculate Conception
Remembering the
National Shrine
in Your Will
Nonprofit Organization
Leaving a Legacy
vvvvv
MARY ’S
SHRINE
vvvvv
A publication of the Basilica of the National
Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
Reverend Monsignor Walter R. Rossi
Rector
Reverend Michael D. Weston
Director of Liturgy
Reverend Vito A. Buonanno
Director of Pilgrimages
Reverend Raymond A. Lebrun, O.M.I.
Spiritual Director
Jacquelyn Hayes
Director of Communications & Editor
Location
400 Michigan Avenue, NE
Washington, DC 20017
Tel: 202-526-8300
Fax: 202-526-8313
[email protected]
www.nationalshrine.com
Shrine Hours
7 am – 7 pm (April – October)
7 am – 6 pm (November – March)
Sunday Masses
5:15 pm (Saturday Vigil)
7:30 am, 9 am, 10:30 am
12 noon (Solemn Mass with Choir)
1:30 pm (Spanish Mass)
4:30 pm
Sunday Confessions
10 am – 12 noon
12:30 pm – 1:30 pm (Spanish)
2 pm – 4 pm
Monday-Saturday Masses
7 am, 7:30 am, 8 am, 8:30 am
12:10 pm, 5:15 pm
Monday – Saturday Confessions
7:45 am – 8:15 am
10 am – 12 noon
3:30 pm – 6 pm
Holy Days
Please contact the Basilica for
Holy Day Schedules.
Cover photo by Matthew Barrick
Thank you for your prayerful consideration
and continued support of Mary’s Shrine.
Guided Tours
Monday – Saturday
9 am, 10 am, 11 am, 1 pm, 2 pm, 3 pm
Sunday
1:30 pm, 2:30 pm, 3:30 pm
Gift Shop & Book Store
Open Daily
Monday - Friday: 9 am - 5:30 pm (Year-Round)
Saturday - Sunday:
8:30 am - 7 pm (April 1- October 31 )
8:30 am - 5:30 pm (November 1- March 31)
Cafeteria
Open Daily
8:00 am – 2 pm
(Sundays until 3 pm)
© 2010 Basilica of the National Shrine
of the Immaculate Conception